Uttar Pradesh Signs Landmark Pact with World Bank to Improve Air Quality

Uttar Pradesh, March 18, 2026 – Uttar Pradesh has taken a major step to tackle air pollution by signing a landmark agreement with the World Bank and the Government of India. The pact will provide USD 299.66 million in support of the Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Program, aimed at reducing pollution and promoting sustainable air quality management across the state.

The program focuses on transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors, implementing integrated solutions to improve air quality. It is expected to benefit Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states, aligning with the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for sustainable development.

The agreement was signed by B. Chandrakala, CEO of Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Authority; Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Government of India; and Paul Procee, Acting Country Director for India, World Bank.

Focus on Health, Sustainability, and Growth

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, “Uttar Pradesh is moving toward a one-trillion-dollar economy. Economic growth, productivity, and environmental sustainability complement each other. This program’s success will be measured not just in GDP, but in clean skies, healthy citizens, and a sustainable environment.”

Paul Procee of the World Bank added that the initiative could mobilize nearly USD 150 million in private investments, including electric buses, three-wheeler vehicles, emissions monitoring in industries, and adoption of clean technologies.

Key Program Highlights

Household Clean Cooking: 3.9 million homes will gain access to clean cooking solutions.
Brick Kiln Modernization: Over 700 brick kilns will adopt resource-efficient technologies.
Agriculture: Farmers will be encouraged to use efficient fertilizers to reduce pollution.
Industrial and Transport Modernization: MSMEs in Kanpur, Ghaziabad, and Noida will receive financial incentives to adopt clean technologies.

This initiative is part of the World Bank’s Indo-Gangetic Plains and Himalayan Foothills Regional Air Quality Management Program, with a 10-year maturity period, aiming to improve public health, industrial productivity, and environmental sustainability in Uttar Pradesh.